The bomb squad has been called and an evacuation centre set up in Nelson South after a report of a suspicious item.

Police were called about 5.20pm and alerted that an item had been left at a Waimea Rd property and an alleged threat made.

Several houses in the area have been cleared as a precaution.

A cordon has been put in place as a precaution, police said.

The Defence Force later confirmed an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team had also been called.

“A number of homes in the area, including a section of Waimea Road and Renwick Place, have been evacuated as a precaution,” a police spokesperson said.

“Anyone affected can now go to Victory Community Centre at 2 Totara Street, Nelson South, Nelson, which has been set up as a temporary evacuation centre.”

Diversions are in place at the intersection of Waimea Rd and Van Dieman St, and Waimea Rd and Bronte St.

People are advised to take an alternate route and to avoid the area if possible.